Barcelona vs Inter Milan Champions League Semi-Final: Simone Inzaghi Highlights Nerazzurri’s Resolve in Press Conference

Inter Boss Dismisses Recent Setbacks, Stresses Tactical Clarity and Player Readiness.

With the Champions League semi-final first leg against Barcelona fast approaching, Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi struck a confident tone in his pre-match press conference. Speaking at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, Inzaghi praised his team’s resilience and progress.

However, he also emphasizing the importance of composure and technical precision in facing one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking sides. He reflected on Inter’s recent dip in domestic form, including defeats to Bologna and Roma in Serie A and elimination in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

Simone Inzaghi and Lautaro's press conference on the eve of #BarcelonaInter (🇬🇧 subtitles) 🎙️#ForzaInter #UCL
— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter_en) April 29, 2025

Inzaghi remained defiant in the face of it. He reminded the club’s overall progress since 2021, including a Scudetto, two Coppa Italia titles, and last season’s Champions League final appearance, saying “The last week does not erase the work done in four years.” Despite the setbacks, the coach sees the tie as an opportunity. He said:

“We come from a bad week, but we can do and we have to do better. We’re excited about the game we’re going to play tomorrow against probably the best team in the world. We need to have the ability to play with sacrifice… We have maximum respect, but no fear.”

Also Read: Barcelona vs Inter Milan Champions League Semi-Final: Hansi Flick Warns of Inter Threat in Press Conference

Thuram Boost, Pavard Out

Injury news was a major theme of Inzaghi’s press conference. Marcus Thuram, who had been sidelined since the Bayern clash, took part in his first full training session ahead of the semi-final. Even so, the coach didn’t warrant that he will get a start, saying, “He gave us good signs, but I have to evaluate tomorrow morning.”

Meanwhile Denzel Dumfries is back to the squad and Federico Dimarco is also expected to start. However, Benjamin Pavard has been ruled out for the match. Inzaghi mentioned possible defensive options in De Vrij, Darmian, or Bisseck.

Also Read: Barcelona vs Inter Preview, Team News, & Predictions

Tactical Respect for Barcelona

Talking about their opponents, Inzaghi credited Hansi Flick’s impact. He noted the Catalan side’s extraordinary numbers and their academy-built squad which includes youngster, like Lamine Yamal and emphasized the importance of fluidity and possession control. Even so, Inzaghi made it clear that Inter are ready to face the challenge with experience, organization, and belief. He said:

“Flick is a fantastic coach who has given a lot of organisation to a very attacking team. They’ve scored over 150 goals this season… but we’ve worked to produce a very organised performance. We’ll need to move the ball well, be clean in possession and defend as a team. We want to have a semi-final like a true Inter side.”

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Moumita Dutta

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Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.